Thailand has announced a significant change to its visa-free entry policy, halving the permitted stay for nationals of 60 countries, including India, from 60 days to 30 days. The new regulations are set to take effect on September 15, 2026.
The move, officially published in the Royal Gazette on August 31, 2026, marks the end of a two-year exemption that allowed a 60-day visa-free stay. This exemption, introduced in 2024, aimed to boost tourism arrivals. The revised policy reinstates the pre-pandemic 30-day standard for most leisure travelers.
Who Is Affected by the New Rules?
Under the updated framework, ordinary passport holders from 60 nations, including key tourism markets like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, all 27 EU member states, China, and India, will now be eligible for visa-exempt entry for tourism for a maximum of 30 days per visit. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the foreign ministry have confirmed the September 15 effective date, following the Interior Ministry’s announcements.
Indian passport holders can still enter Thailand without a tourist visa, but their maximum stay will be limited to 30 days. Travelers planning to extend their visit beyond this period must apply for an appropriate visa or utilize another permitted immigration route prior to finalizing their travel arrangements.
Tightened Land Border Entries
In addition to the 30-day cap, Thai authorities are also tightening visa-exempt entries via land borders. Reports indicate that visitors using land crossings will generally be restricted to two visa-exempt entries per calendar year. This measure is intended to curb misuse and address criminal activities associated with some long-stay foreign nationals.
Entry via air and sea arrivals for the listed 60 countries will continue to be governed by the 30-day exemption.
Why the Rollback?
Thai authorities have framed these changes as part of a broader initiative to improve immigration oversight and tackle criminal activities linked to certain long-stay foreign visitors. While tourism remains a vital pillar of the Thai economy, the government is balancing economic benefits with national security and regulatory control.
Travel agents and airlines are expected to issue updated advisories in the lead-up to the September 15 implementation date. Tourists with existing long-stay plans are strongly advised to verify their eligibility and secure any necessary visas before the new rules come into force.